Making a splash: Kildare-based artist to unveil free visual arts experience celebrating the River Liffey

Water forms such a pivotal part of life, so what better way to celebrate and respect its importance than by creating a work of art dedicated to its natural beauty?

Clearly agreeing with this sentiment, a North Kildare artist is set to unveil a free visual arts experience celebrating the River Liffey next month.

Kathrine Geoghegan, who works and lives in Straffan, is preparing to present "Lifeforce", an exhibition of works following the course of the River Liffey from its source to where it meets the sea in Dublin Bay.

According to Kathrine: "This exhibition takes a voyage with the river over its 130 kilometre course, nurturing and irrigating the landscapes and habitats it passes with life-sustaining water.

"The paintings are inspired by the habitats and their plants, from peatland bog cotton to wildflower meadow, to an underwater confluence of freshwater plants and algae imagined where the river becomes tidal at Island Bridge, where sweet water meets brine."

She also revealed that biologist, author and broadcaster, Éanna Ní Lamhna, will deliver the opening speech.

"Éanna was recently awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Galway (UCG) for her work in increasing awareness of science and biodiversity, the first woman to be so honoured by UCG," Katherine added.

The opening reception will take place on May 8, 2025 at 7.30pm in the United Arts Club (3 Upper Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin 2 County Dublin).

The exhibition will run until June 8, 2025 and will be open on Mondays from 11am to 5pm, Tuesday to Friday from 11am to 9pm, and Saturdays from 5pm to 10pm.

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